May 12, 2008

Repetto

I spent the last two weeks traveling around Europe. Shopping is more challenging as the dollar is weak, but shopaholic that I am, I pounded the Paris streets in search of the perfect souvenir. I usually pick up a pair of driving shoes, but was disappointed that Gigi, on Rue Tronchet, no longer carries the Elisabeth Stuart driving shoe. (I was still able to find a cute pair of ballet flats.)

As I strolled up the Rue De L'Opera back to my favorite little hotel in Paris, I saw a commotion down the Rue De Paix. There were cars double parked, the side walk was roped off and there was a long line. I assumed that there was a sale, or a celebrity in town. Much to my surprise, the line was to enter the Repetto store. There was no sale. I inquired about the line, and was informed that Repetto is so popular, that fashionistas in Paris line up to get in.

I have always been a fan of Repetto. The classic ballet flat has been around for over sixty years. I have a collection of ballet flats. Strange, but true. I tend to pick up ballet flats all over the world. So where can a Bay Area girl to score a pair of Repettos? Of course there are online options where you may even find a sale. In SF, there is always Gimme Shoes or in Los Altos at Crimson Mim.